[doublec4]

Hello everyone,

I'd like to get some opinions and advice on a CNC router build I would like to take on.

I'm new to the CNC world and I need to know if I'm being realistic with my goals and expectations.

First, I would like to have a build that I can either buy and assemble, or at least comes with plans so I can source out the parts individually (Open to either option). If certain parts need to be laser cut or machined, I have local shops where I can get that work done.

Second, I would like to be able to cut/machine a variety of materials. This includes plastics, mdf, and aluminum. Rigidity of the machine will a requirement for cutting aluminum. I may need to cut some fairly thick aluminum at times, so I would imagine I would be sacrificing speed to do this? (slower feed rate and more passes?)

Third, I would ideally like a working area of 36"x24" and maybe 4 or 5 inches in the Z direction.

Lastly, I currently have a budget of $1700 roughly. I already have a computer/monitor and I would like to use freeware software at first. So the budget would cover the structure/motion components/electronics.

Can this be done? Any kits or plans come to mind that fit the bill?

If anyone can please help point me in the right direction to a good starting point I would appreciate it. There are so many options out there and so much information on this forum that it is slightly overwhelming. I'd like to leverage off of the experience of this forum and it's users so I can build a machine that meets my needs and budget.

Thank you,

Chris

:wave:

[ger21]

I think the only thing close to your budget would be something from CNC Router Parts, but I think it will cost you more.

There really aren't any plans or kits out there for a really solid machine that size, imo.

[doublec4]

Thank you for the reply and the suggestion.

I'll have to check them out.

In order to build a machine like I've specified, what kind of budget do you feel is doable? I'd be open to putting more money into it to get the results I want.

Thank you

[ger21]

I don't think you're going to be able to find a kit or plans for what you want.
Most likely you'd need to design your own.
Budget should probably be somewhere around $4000, but if you build it yourself, you can probably do it for $2500-$3000. It's hard to come up with a price, as many factors have an influence. Mainly, how much of the work can you do yourself.?

Machines that I'd consider close to what you're looking for would be the Camaster Stinger, or XZero.

[doublec4]

What is your opinion of the FLA-100 kit? A very capable machine?

There are some videos of it cutting aluminum on youtube. Seems to do so quite smoothly. Also, if I were to build the frame myself I could potentially save a few dollars.

Let me know what you think. Thank you

[ger21]

The FLA machines use CNC ROuter Parts components. I've never seen one in person, but there are many members here using them.